Winter is the perfect season to elevate your hairstyle with cozy textures, polished finishes, and a touch of frosty elegance. Whether you’re heading to a festive holiday gathering, a winter wedding, or simply want to upgrade your everyday look, winter updos bring timeless beauty to cold-weather styling.
These hairstyles combine warmth, sophistication, and seasonal charm—think soft tendrils, braided crowns, pearl pins, and snowy sparkles. From loose, romantic twists to sleek, sculpted buns, each updo enhances your overall winter aesthetic while keeping your hair protected from harsh winds. Explore these 18 elegant winter updos and discover inspiration for your next chic, frost-kissed look.
1. Frost-Kissed Low Chignon
A frost-kissed low chignon offers a graceful winter aesthetic that blends refined elegance with seasonal softness. This updo sits neatly at the nape, creating a warm, cozy frame for scarves, coats, and winter accessories. It pairs beautifully with frosty makeup looks—silver lids, berry lips, and glowing skin.
What sets this style apart is its timeless feel and versatility. Whether for a winter gala, Christmas celebration, or romantic date night, this chignon offers a touch of polished glamour without overwhelming your look. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a minimal yet sophisticated updo that captures the serene beauty of winter.
How to Style:
Gather hair into a low pony, twist into a chignon, pin securely, and pull a few face-framing strands. Finish with pearly or crystal pins.
Why You Must Try It:
It’s elegant, easy to wear, and ideal for winter outfits.
Style Suggestions: Pair with stud earrings and a soft cashmere coat.
2. Snowfall Twisted Bun
This twisted bun captures the charm of softly falling snow. The intertwined sections create texture reminiscent of snowflakes layering delicately on the ground. It’s a romantic style that works for cozy winter dinners or festive celebrations.
The twisted effect gives your hair dimension, making it look fuller and more polished. It’s especially flattering for medium to long hair and pairs beautifully with winter-inspired makeup and jewelry. If you’re looking for a hairstyle that feels whimsical yet refined, the snowfall twisted bun is a go-to.
How to Style:
Twist two sections from each side, join them into a bun, and secure with pins.
Why You Must Try It:
It looks intricate but is surprisingly easy.
Style Suggestions: Add crystal bobby pins for a snowflake effect.
3. Winter Pearl Updo
Pearls instantly elevate any hairstyle, and winter is the perfect season to embrace their icy elegance. A winter pearl updo combines sleek or softly textured styling with scattered pearl accessories for a luxurious, frosty finish.
This hairstyle is perfect for winter weddings, holiday parties, or photoshoots. Its luminous appeal enhances warm sweaters, velvety dresses, and glittering gowns. The pearly sheen gives your entire look a romantic, winter-wonderland feel.
How to Style:
Create a low bun or twist, smooth flyaways, then place pearl pins throughout.
Why You Must Try It:
Pearls add timeless sophistication effortlessly.
Style Suggestions: Best paired with pearl earrings or a pearl-embellished neckline.
4. Cozy Braided Crown
A braided crown feels regal with a cozy winter twist. It lifts the hair off the neck, preventing frizz from scarves and sweaters while giving you a beautifully framed face. The placement of the braid resembles a knitted winter headband, making it seasonally perfect.
Whether you’re heading to a Christmas market or dressing up for a holiday dinner, the braided crown keeps your hair in place while radiating soft elegance.
How to Style:
Braid two side sections and wrap around the head; pin securely.
Why You Must Try It:
It’s protective, stylish, and winter-friendly.
Style Suggestions: Wear with turtlenecks or fuzzy sweaters for balance.
5. Icy High Bun
The icy high bun gives a crisp, lifted look that instantly elongates your features. This winter updo is both practical and chic, keeping hair away from bulky scarves while adding a sleek, frosty vibe. It works well for both casual and formal winter outings.
Whether you’re grabbing coffee or attending a New Year’s event, this polished bun adds a dash of winter magic.
How to Style:
Pull hair into a high pony, wrap into a bun, and secure with pins. Smooth edges for a clean finish.
Why You Must Try It:
It’s easy, stylish, and universally flattering.
Style Suggestions: Add a sparkly hair cuff or winter headband.
6. Soft Winter Twist Updo
This gentle twist updo gives a romantic, frost-touched feel perfect for December evenings. The soft twists create an airy, effortless finish with just enough structure to stay put through winter winds. It’s ideal for medium to long hair and works beautifully for winter photoshoots, family gatherings, or elegant dinners.
How to Style:
Twist several small sections toward the back and pin into a loose bun.
Why You Must Try It:
It creates volume and movement without appearing too formal.
Style Suggestions: Add soft curls around the face and pair with delicate earrings.
7. Rustic Winter Braided Bun
A rustic braided bun captures cabin-in-the-snow charm. The braid adds texture and warmth, while the bun keeps everything secure and stylish. This style is especially nice for winter adventures—from ice skating to tree-lighting events. It leans toward a cozy aesthetic, making it great with plaid coats, chunky knitwear, or fur-lined jackets.
How to Style:
Create a braid at the back or side, wrap into a bun, and pin.
Why You Must Try It:
It blends comfort with elegance perfectly.
Style Suggestions: Accent with tiny pinecone or leaf-inspired pins.
8. Sleek Frosty Knot
The Sleek Frosty Knot is the perfect winter updo for those who love minimalist elegance with a crisp, polished edge. This hairstyle’s smooth finish and compact knot create an icy, high-fashion look reminiscent of shimmering frost on a cold morning. Its clean structure makes it ideal for pairing with bold winter coats, structured silhouettes, and glamorous makeup looks.
Whether you’re attending a chic holiday event or opting for a refined everyday style, this knot delivers sophistication without unnecessary fuss. It’s also practical—keeping your hair secured and frizz-free beneath scarves, hats, and winter outerwear. A go-to style when you want simplicity with sparkling winter refinement.
How to Style:
Smooth hair tightly into a mid bun and twist into a compact knot.
Why You Must Try It:
It’s high-fashion, sleek, and low maintenance.
Style Suggestions: Pair with statement earrings and a structured coat.
9. Twisted Side Updo
The Twisted Side Updo embodies soft winter romance with its gentle asymmetry, flowing tendrils, and elegant side placement. This style beautifully frames the face and adds a graceful, feminine energy that’s perfect for winter gatherings, date nights, and evening parties. The side twist creates a sculpted shape that’s both polished and approachable, making it suitable for formal and semi-formal looks.
What makes this updo truly special is its ability to complement winter fashion—think cozy off-shoulder sweaters, warm scarves, and sparkly accessories. It gives off a warm, romantic glow, balancing structure and softness as effortlessly as falling snow.
How to Style:
Twist hair to one side, pin into a bun, and leave soft tendrils around the face.
Why You Must Try It:
It’s flattering, feminine, and works for any winter event.
Style Suggestions: Add crystal clips for extra sparkle.
10. Winter Messy Bun with Sparkle
This Winter Messy Bun brings effortless charm together with seasonal sparkle, making it a standout choice for casual and festive winter moments alike. It offers a relaxed, naturally tousled texture that feels cozy and chic, ideal for days when you want to look put together without appearing overdone. Winter-inspired accessories like snowflake clips, pearl pins, or subtle glitter accents elevate the messy bun into something truly magical.
Perfect for holiday shopping trips, winter brunches, or cozy nights out, it blends comfort and glamour seamlessly. This updo captures the warmth of the season while adding just enough shimmer to make your cold-weather look glow.
How to Style:
Pull hair into a relaxed bun, let strands fall naturally, then add sparkly accessories.
Why You Must Try It:
It mixes comfort and glamour without overstyling.
Style Suggestions: Pair with oversized sweaters or winter scarves.
11. Braided Winter Halo
The Braided Winter Halo channels ethereal, frost-kissed beauty with its crown-like shape that sits gracefully atop the head. This enchanting updo is ideal for holiday celebrations, winter weddings, and special photoshoots, offering an angelic, timeless aesthetic. The braid encircles the head like a delicate winter wreath, highlighting facial features while keeping your hair elegantly secured.
Its soft, romantic finish creates a dreamy winter-wonderland vibe, especially when enhanced with small pearls, silver clips, or tiny snowflake accessories. Whether you’re wearing flowing winter dresses or structured coats, this halo-style braid adds grace and whimsy to your entire seasonal look.
How to Style:
Braid the entire length of your hair, wrap it across the top like a halo, and secure.
Why You Must Try It:
It’s romantic, timeless, and incredibly photogenic.
Style Suggestions: Add micro-pearls or snowflake pins.
12. Frosted Loose Bun
The Frosted Loose Bun is the perfect blend of softness and winter glamour, offering an airy, romantic look that mirrors the gentle sparkle of frost. With its relaxed silhouette and lightly tousled finish, this updo brings effortless elegance to winter gatherings, formal events, or cozy candlelit dinners. The loose structure allows for subtle movement, giving the hairstyle a dreamy, ethereal appearance.
Soft pieces frame the face, adding warmth and glow against winter’s crisp backdrop. This updo pairs beautifully with lace, satin, and velvet—making it a stunning choice for anyone wanting a sophisticated yet natural winter hairstyle that captures the season’s delicate charm.
How to Style:
Create a loose bun, pull out gentle waves, and spray lightly for hold.
Why You Must Try It:
It offers movement and softness without sacrificing elegance.
Style Suggestions: Pair with lace or satin winter outfits.
13. Braided Side Bun
The Braided Side Bun brings together romance and refinement with its elegant side positioning and beautiful braided details. This winter-friendly hairstyle highlights your neckline and accessories, making it ideal for holiday dinners, winter dates, or special events. The braid adds texture and visual interest, while the side placement enhances femininity and softness.
It’s a hairstyle that stands out without being overly elaborate, striking a perfect balance between charm and simplicity. Whether styled with shimmering pins or pearl accents, the braided side bun creates a warm, graceful, and photogenic winter look that suits both casual and formal winter outfits.
How to Style:
Braid one side, roll into a bun, and pin.
Why You Must Try It:
It’s gorgeous from all angles and adds winter charm.
Style Suggestions: Add silver or pearl accessories.
14. Sleek Winter Roll
The Sleek Winter Roll channels vintage glamour with a modern seasonal twist. Inspired by old-Hollywood elegance, this polished rolled updo gives a structured yet smooth finish that looks immaculate under winter lighting. It’s a timeless choice for formal events, evening parties, and holiday galas, offering sophistication that never goes out of style.
The roll hugs the nape beautifully, keeping hair secure and frizz-free despite winter scarves and coats. This hairstyle elevates any winter wardrobe—pair it with bold lips, statement jewelry, and luxurious fabrics for the ultimate snow-season chic. The result is a beautifully sculpted look that radiates confidence and icy elegance.
How to Style:
Roll hair inward from ends to nape and pin securely.
Why You Must Try It:
It channels timeless elegance with modern flair.
Style Suggestions: Bold red lips and fur coats complement it well.
15. Frosty Braided Pony Updo
The Frosty Braided Pony Updo blends playful winter energy with refined styling, giving you a youthful yet elegant cold-weather look. This hybrid updo combines the charm of braids with the practicality of a lifted pony, creating movement and structure in one hairstyle. It’s ideal for winter festivals, casual outings, or any event where you want a bit of sparkle without going full formal.
The braid adds dimension and a frosty, textured appearance, while the pony element keeps the look light and energetic. Add shimmering clips or silver ties for an instant winter-wonderland effect that enhances your seasonal outfit effortlessly.
How to Style:
Braid the top, twist the bottom into a bun or looped pony.
Why You Must Try It:
It’s playful, youthful, and perfect for winter festivals.
Style Suggestions: Use glitter hair ties or cool-toned clips.
16. Winter Ribbon Bun
The Winter Ribbon Bun is a charming, feminine hairstyle that brings cozy holiday nostalgia to your look. Wrapped with velvet, satin, or organza ribbons, this bun becomes an adorable yet elegant winter statement. Its simplicity makes it incredibly versatile—perfect for festive gatherings, winter photoshoots, or everyday styling with a touch of whimsy.
The ribbon adds softness and warmth, giving your hairstyle a seasonal, storybook feel reminiscent of holiday classics. Whether paired with knitwear, winter dresses, or playful accessories, the ribbon bun creates a polished, sweet, and beautifully coordinated winter aesthetic that enhances every outfit.
How to Style:
Create a low bun and wrap a velvet or satin ribbon around it.
Why You Must Try It:
It’s sweet, stylish, and perfect for holiday celebrations.
Style Suggestions: Match ribbon to your outfit for harmony.
17. Snow-Queen Textured Updo
The Snow-Queen Textured Updo embodies dramatic winter beauty with its voluminous structure, sculpted details, and frosty-inspired finish. This glamorous hairstyle is perfect for formal winter events, holiday galas, and photoshoots where you want a bold, standout look. The elevated texture gives the updo a queenly aura, echoing icy crowns and shimmering snowdrifts.
Soft sparkles, pearl sprays, or silver accents take the drama even further, making the entire style glow under winter lighting. If you want a hairstyle that exudes confidence, royalty, and wintry enchantment, the Snow-Queen updo is the crown-worthy choice that transforms your entire look.
How to Style:
Backcomb roots for volume, sculpt into a voluminous bun, and add sparkle spray.
Why You Must Try It:
It’s bold, glamorous, and makes a statement.
Style Suggestions: Metallic eyeshadow completes the theme.
18. Elegant Winter Bun with Braided Accents
The Elegant Winter Bun with Braided Accents beautifully merges classic sophistication with modern winter charm. This updo features a smooth or textured bun enhanced with delicate braided elements that wrap through or around it, adding depth and intricate detail. It’s ideal for winter weddings, evening parties, and elevated casual days where you want refined beauty with minimal effort.
The braided pieces bring dimension and a handcrafted winter feel, while the bun keeps the style polished and timeless. Accessorize with subtle pearls or crystal pins to complete the look and give your hairstyle a gentle frosty sparkle perfect for the season.
How to Style:
Form a bun, braid small sections, and wrap them around it.
Why You Must Try It:
It’s versatile and elegant for any winter setting.
Style Suggestions: Add pearl or crystal accents.
Conclusion
Winter is a magical time to experiment with hairstyles that blend elegance, warmth, and seasonal charm. These 18 elegant winter updos offer a variety of looks—from polished and sleek to textured and cozy—making them perfect for any cold-weather occasion.
Whether you’re attending holiday celebrations, winter weddings, or simply elevating your everyday style, these frosty-inspired updos add sophistication with minimal effort.
With sparkling accessories, soft curls, and braided details, you can embrace the beauty of winter while staying stylish and comfortable. Choose your favorite updo and let your winter look shine with frosty elegance.